tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26702476970459486782024-03-13T05:58:07.522-04:00Viva La Knitolution!Tidbits from my fiber life- dyeing, spinning, designing, experimenting!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-14495367196105956022013-03-10T21:44:00.004-04:002013-03-10T21:44:24.012-04:00Free Pattern Download!To help bring in Spring, 100 people will get one of my patterns free!<br />
Go to my ravelry shop (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/designers/jen-kobrick">http://www.ravelry.com/designers/jen-kobrick</a>), choose the pattern you would like, and use code <b>SPRINGKNIT </b>at checkout. Enjoy!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-54982459801405829992012-12-05T17:33:00.001-05:002012-12-05T17:33:27.404-05:00Biohazard Blankie<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; float: left; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; position: relative; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkf0L50H2uScfkDjMTssBSNLhIGf3xSEC0btyZXldisQ_rRpifVqsUSxCeg5ahdwQHdPZuOfJiw_krgsSZiZ69fNrsUrCuMZamKfCyA4HcjrCXtjoNWga7GZWeetj3XLT23OTHzStkkc/s1600/P1020914_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #3244ff; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkf0L50H2uScfkDjMTssBSNLhIGf3xSEC0btyZXldisQ_rRpifVqsUSxCeg5ahdwQHdPZuOfJiw_krgsSZiZ69fNrsUrCuMZamKfCyA4HcjrCXtjoNWga7GZWeetj3XLT23OTHzStkkc/s320/P1020914_medium2.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12px; text-align: center;">Biohazard Blankie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>Another new pattern posted!!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>Biohazard Blankie</b><br />A fun tunisian crochet blanket for a baby with parents who have a sense of humor! Or, use the biohazard chart to make a sweater, hat, felted bag, cross-stitch project, or feel free to knit the blanket or use regular crochet. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Gauge- 4 st per inch<br />Yarn- Lily Sugar and Cream<br />Size- 40" square<br /><b>$0.99 </b></span><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knitolution-designs/129463" style="background-color: white; color: #6666cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-decoration: initial;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-58168320088065200882012-11-29T16:57:00.002-05:002012-11-29T16:57:23.188-05:00Sarah Top<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/132588709/P1060570_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/132588709/P1060570_medium2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Sarah Top</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Sarah is a fun piece with a touch of elegance. It is beautiful by itself on warm days, or it can be layered over a long sleeve tshirt and jeans for a modern take on the classic sweater vest, or under a blazer for the workplace or a night out. Sarah is a racerback sleeveless top with a deep and thick cowl neck. It is knit from the bottom up, beginning with ribbing from the mid-hip to the empire waist. Ribbing all the way up to the empire waist allows the fabric to hug curves and create a very flattering fit. Because of the way the cowl is shaped, Sarah easily fits a wide variety of shapes and bust sizes.</span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">
<b>$3.99 </b><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knitolution-designs/128441" style="color: #6666cc; text-decoration: initial;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a></div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-19870527051473384982012-11-15T15:35:00.004-05:002012-11-15T15:35:54.806-05:00Braided Socks<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4cf.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/130265552/P1010134_medium2_medium.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #3244ff; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4cf.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/130265552/P1010134_medium2_medium.JPG" style="border: none; position: relative;" width="240" /></a></div>
<b><div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">
<b>Brand new pattern is out today!</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">
<br /></div>
Braided Socks</b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Braided Socks are knit toe up with a cable and eyelet pattern that begins at the toe, and a unique braided cable on the back of the leg beginning at the short row heel. The pattern is only a 4 row repeat, making it easy to follow. The leg is ribbed between the pattern stitches for the best fit.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">The instructions are written to allow the knitter to customize the size by fitting at the ball of the foot, the heel, the ankle, and the calf. The smallest sizing would fit a small adult woman, and can comfortably be sized up to a large woman’s foot or medium man’s foot.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Please Note: The pictured sock shows the pattern stitches beginning above the toe, however the pattern is written so that the pattern begins right at the toe, with increases worked into the pattern stitches.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;" />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">
<b>$2.99 <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knitolution-designs/126189" style="color: #6666cc; text-decoration: initial;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" style="border: none; position: relative;" /></a> </b></div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-9259411439110712172012-11-05T14:16:00.003-05:002012-11-05T14:16:58.535-05:00Free Shipping!Start your holiday shopping early (and get it over with early too!) Whether you're shopping for a gift for a fiber or vintage enthusiast, or shopping for supplies to make gifts, take advantage of free shipping!<br />
<br />
Until Thanksgiving, I'll be offering free shipping to all US addresses with the coupon code FREESHIP. Just enter the code during checkout <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution" target="_blank">on etsy</a>.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-3849028372382119712012-10-17T14:40:00.000-04:002012-10-17T14:40:34.214-04:00Projects<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125512723/Project_20120805_0012_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125512723/Project_20120805_0012_medium2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
First of all, I finally got around to uploading a photo of my wedding veil in action!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510549/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510549/file0_medium2" width="200" /></a></div>
Here's a roundup of other projects in progress. I've been working on my Sarah Top, the next pattern I'll be writing up for Knit Picks. Its going swimmingly so far, can't wait to get past the ribbing and see how the fun part works out! Stay tuned.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510788/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510788/file0_medium2" width="200" /></a></div>
I'm also working on lining my dad's camera case for him- I need to hand sew the lining in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510908/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125510908/file0_medium2" width="112" /></a></div>
I started my Irish Diamond Shawl, FINALLY! I've had this in the queue for about 4 years!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511064/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511064/file0_medium2" width="200" /></a></div>
I spent an evening working out double knit entrelac for my color sampler scarf- which has now become a color sampler moebius cowl. It'll be gorgeous, and the double knit entrelac is not nearly as tricky as I expected.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511132/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511132/file0_medium2" width="112" /></a></div>
The "A" in sailing is now finished on my cross stitch<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511203/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511203/file0_medium2" width="200" /></a></div>
I've been working through a few repeats of my backstrap belt<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511282/file0_medium2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/125511282/file0_medium2" width="200" /></a></div>
Lastly, I finally remembered to take a photo of attempt #3 at my penguin vest, though I haven't actually worked on it in a couple months.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-86117649062736079292012-10-09T12:17:00.005-04:002012-10-09T12:21:06.600-04:00Pucker Up Hat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/124069568/P1060015_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/124069568/P1060015_medium2.JPG" width="307" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">I finally got my newest pattern finished and published! Its a really quick knit, cute hat, and it would be really cute in a hand painted yarn. Enjoy! </span></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Pucker Up Hat</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Pucker Up is a perfect hat for Fall or Spring because it’s very lightweight and breaths well. Its 3-dimensional texture keeps it interesting to knit, and nice to pull out at the end of Winter when you still need a hat, but are tired of wearing one- Pucker Up is there with fun texture! It knits up quickly, but looks more complicated than it is.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Measure the head around the widest part to determine size, sizing is given to fit each head size with a beanie style fit. If you prefer a “slouchy” fit, cast on and follow ribbing instructions for your head size, then increase in the last ribbing row to the number of stitches given for one size larger.</span><br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/124069570/P1060017_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/124069570/P1060017_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Pattern uses simple short rows (no wrapping and turning!) And includes instructions both for knitting back backwards or turning the work to create the short rows.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Gauge- 22st/4inches, #3 and 4 needles<br />Yarn- Knit Picks Stroll Sport 120-210 yards<br />Size- 18", 20", 22", 24", 26"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><b>$1.99</b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/purchase/knitolution-designs/120666"><img border="0" src="http://www.ravelry.com/images/shopping/buy-now.gif" /></a>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-44568265810415596762012-09-27T14:40:00.000-04:002012-09-27T14:40:03.404-04:00Scratching the ItchIts been hard to do much knitting these past 6 weeks. Leaving Boston that quickly was so chaotic and fast paced that there was literally no time to knit, and then on the long drive from MA to FL, I thought I would get a ton of knitting done- normally, I love knitting in the car! But I was so worn out from the previous weeks, that all I could do was sit and stare out the window. The first 2 weeks in Florida were fast paced again- so many things to set up, build, and unpack. Finally, this week, I've had some solid knitting time. And now I'm feeling the itch again, and having to employ all of my willpower to keep from ignoring everything else and knit, all the time.<br />
<br />
I think during the chaos of moving, I put knitting out of my mind, forced myself not to think about it because so much needed my attention. So as soon as I let myself pick up the needles again... all of those 6 weeks of not knitting came flooding back. All at once. Hopefully there will be a lot of knitting in my near future!<br />
<br />
Here is a project update:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331454/P1050804_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331454/P1050804_medium2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
My Pucker Up Hat- that I really thought I was going to knit on the drive to Florida, and didn't. And then did knit in the span of 2 days this week, because I couldn't stop! Pattern coming very soon to ravelry and Knit Picks!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122330993/P1050805_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122330993/P1050805_medium2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Entrelac Socks- this progress is mostly from the ravellenics, but I'm just now posting a photo. Both socks are now past the heel, and so should be quick knitting from here on. I also got my penguin vest re-started during the ravellenics, and (hopefully) successfully on its way (this time) but I didn't get a photo.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331285/P1050811_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331285/P1050811_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Cross stitch- also from the ravellenics, some good progress on my big cross stitch project at the moment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331086/P1050810_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/122331086/P1050810_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
And finally, 2 more hexipuffs, from some time waiting around when I finally remembered that it was in my purse!<br />
<br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-31754634156442431272012-09-13T14:00:00.003-04:002012-09-13T14:00:54.813-04:00Settling In!The last 6 weeks have been crazy, but also very exciting. First, there was the chaos of last minute wedding planning, the week in Yellowstone, the wedding itself, and then immediately after we got home, we had to start packing! Ryan is now working for Space Florida, and so after a whirlwind move, we're starting to settle into our new Florida home. I'm working on two new patterns for Knit Picks to be released soon, and everything left in <a href="http://knitolution.etsy.com/" target="_blank">my etsy shop</a> is still available for sale.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-11978445186319584392012-07-25T15:01:00.000-04:002012-07-25T15:01:13.141-04:00Let the Games Begin!I'm taking stock in preparation for the Ravellenic Games- 2 projects recently finished: R2D2 and a gorgeous shawl! I love love love the way the shawl turned out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/112989561/P1030977_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/112989561/P1030977_medium2.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/112899902/P1030971_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/112899902/P1030971_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
That leaves me with 8 WIPS currently: 2 weaving, 1 cross stitch, 2 socks, a vest, a scarf, and my hexipuffs. I decided to stick with WIPS wrestling as my sole event for these games, because we are moving in August, so if I can finish off some things, I can replace them with brand new projects to fill the in-between time when the yarn stash is packed up.<br />
<br />
Realistically, they aren't all going to get finished! For one thing, the hexipuffs are a never ending project, so they are just hopeless. For another, I'll be doing a lot of my WIP wrestling in cars during my wedding trip, and weaving doesn't really work in that context. The scarf and cross stitch are also pretty slow going, and still near the beginning. So that leaves me with 3 projects I hope to finish during the Olympics!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/25042798/P1040176_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/25042798/P1040176_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
For knitting at home before and after the trip, my penguin vest, which I still love despite not having touched in ages. Its a bit bulky to bring with me travelling, but its perfect for knitting on the couch and watching the events.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308535/P1030407_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308535/P1030407_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
For mindless purse knitting, perfect for travel and for working on while listening to relatives talk, Ryan's socks. Nearing completion, and perhaps done in time to be a wedding present! Ooh, maybe he'll even wear them to the wedding! That would be fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749922/P1020382_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749922/P1020382_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
For travel knitting when I can focus on my work, the entrelac socks. One sock is about 1/3 done, the other is only at the toe. It would be great to finish these too and leave me with 3 more empty project bags!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-62667301118971679202012-07-10T16:51:00.002-04:002012-07-10T16:51:48.697-04:00Changes and Discounts<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">After a lot of soul searching and reflection, I have decided to refocus my efforts on pattern design, and for that reason I will be closing down other aspects of Knitolution at the end of August. More of my stock and supplies will be posted soon as I clear things out, but please enjoy 10% off your purchases with code BLOG10! Thank you. </span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution">http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution</a>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-64698919751111177952012-07-10T15:29:00.001-04:002012-07-10T15:29:50.484-04:00Crocheting, and CrochetingI'm so tired of making amigurimi! Fortunately, I'm also very closed to finished. In the last month I've finished Chewbaccas, Vaders, and Zoidbergs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/110033600/P1030470_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/110033600/P1030470_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171561/P1030860_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171561/P1030860_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171592/P1030859_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171592/P1030859_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Also for the wedding, I busted out a kippah to give Ian for marrying us, and a pair of corsage cuffs knit with wire for our mothers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171617/P1030862_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171617/P1030862_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171524/P1030861_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/111171524/P1030861_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Now that I'm finally really really close to being done with wedding crocheting and knitting, I'm trying to bust out birthday gifts for my parents in time to wrestle some serious WIPS when the Olympics start! I'm hoping to finish Ryan's socks, my entrelac socks, and make some serious progress (finally) on my penguin vest.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-16630363537092275152012-06-21T14:12:00.000-04:002012-06-22T10:00:13.205-04:00Shame on the USOC, and mini skeinsIf you haven't heard, the USOC (US Olympic Committee) has decided to go after Ravelry for the Olympic fan event, the Ravelympics. Read the full cease and desist letter <a href="http://gawker.com/5920036/us-olympics-committee-is-mad-at-knitting-olympics-for-denigrating-real-athletes" target="_blank">here</a>. The thing knitters are taking issue with (mostly) is not the claim of copyright infringement (which it is, technically) but both that the USOC is wasting time and money attacking a group that is not making any money from their Olympic themed event, but also that the USOC is claiming that knitting is denigrating and offensive to the spirit of the Olympics. I've loved watching the Olympics for my entire life, but if the USOC does not apologize for insulting knitters and our desire to participate in the Olympic spirit, then I will not be watching the Olympics this summer. Want to let the USOC know what you think? Knitter or non-knitter, post on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USOlympicTeam" target="_blank">USOC facebook page</a> in support of knitters engaging in the spirit of the Olympics (and spending many hours knitting while watching the games!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.347278802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.347278802.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Meanwhile... I posted 6 different sets of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution?section_id=7717646" target="_blank">mini skeins on etsy</a> yesterday. Mini skeins are perfect for adding a little bit of color to a project, stripes, or of course, for the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-beekeepers-quilt" target="_blank">Beekeeper's Quilt</a> or any of the other scrap yarn blankets, scarves, etc.<br />
<br />
Upadate: The USOC issued <a href="http://www.teamusa.org/News/2012/June/21/statement-from-usoc-spokesperson-patrick-sandusky.aspx" target="_blank">this response</a> to the flood of angry comments from knitters. As many others have pointed out, this is a pretty lame attempt at apologizing for what was clearly NOT a form letter but a very personalized, detailed, and demeaning letter. And really, to show YOUR support of ravelry, WE should send you hand knitted stuff? Knitted Olympic themed stuff from those patterns you asked ravelry to remove?<br />
<br />
Update again: The USOC updated their apology to be a bit more contrite, and said they would no longer consider legal action against Ravelry. Hooray for the power of knitters! In 48 hours we were put down, responded, and received two apologies from a powerful organization! I am so thrilled and impressed, and I love Ravelry and the community it creates more than ever.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-35166661694731728642012-06-18T23:10:00.001-04:002012-06-18T23:10:57.714-04:00The Sound of Slipping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373283/P1020915_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373283/P1020915_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
The sound of finished projects slipping to the floor after the last bound off stitch that is! After spending a marathon memorial day weekend knitting 6-8 hours a day, I finished the 2 blankets that had deadlines at the beginning of June. While in Colorado for a friend's (gorgeous!) wedding, I finished my own wedding veil (finally!) and shortly after returning I finished the Wall-Es. In between all of that, I've made some good progress on Ryan's socks in spare moments, and I've started on the Boba Fetts. At least without the blanket deadlines looming over me the amigurimi feel like they are going faster!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373245/P1020914_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373245/P1020914_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
The biohazard baby blankie: A chart that I will eventually get converted from paper to electronic form and posted, because, well, I'm pretty pleased with how it came out! The parents were also thrilled, and that's what really matters.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106556072/IMAG1499_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="119" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106556072/IMAG1499_medium2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373238/P1020910_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/106373238/P1020910_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>The wedding blanket for the friends who got married in said gorgeous wedding- they love it, and it did indeed come out big enough for both of them to cuddle up under, so I did my job! They loved it so much that they sent photos, during their honeymoon!!, of them cuddled under it in a cabin in the mountains. Also, they took it on their honeymoon! Way to be appreciative knit recipients friends. Rest assured your future babies will have many handknits to wear!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/107409664/P1030352_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/107409664/P1030352_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
My wedding veil! I know, isn't it gorgeous?!? When I first bound off, there was a little moment where I held it up and went, "seriously?!? THAT'S all the knitting I get for all that work?!?" and even after blocking its still a pretty small shawl, for having worked probably close to 100,000 stitches over the last 18 months! But it really is beautiful, and I got a little weepy when I tried pinning it on with my dress (sorry, none of those photos until after the wedding), and I'm quite proud of it if I do say so myself. I am, however, also swearing off cobweb yarns for the foreseeable future!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308556/P1030406_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308556/P1030406_medium2.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308535/P1030407_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/108308535/P1030407_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Ryan's socks are really coming along, and aren't they just charming? Also, he is a very willing foot model. Always a plus.<br />
<br />
The first Boba Fett off the hook! Its adorable, and I love it, but I am really really really tired of crocheting little space toys. I really can't wait to be done with that.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-12063155121951094082012-06-14T11:01:00.000-04:002012-06-14T11:01:21.052-04:00New Worsted Wooly and Chubby Bunny<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ny-image3.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.340636555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://ny-image3.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.340636555.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Lots of new colors posted recently! In Worsted Wooly, Endor: <span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Endor's inspiration is pretty obvious- the lush greens and browns of the forest moon!</span><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ny-image0.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.339747708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://ny-image0.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.339747708.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">In Chubby Bunny, 3 new colors. First, Keukenhof: </span><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Keukenhof colorway is inspired by the riot of colors in Holland's famous tulip gardens, during the spring tulip festivals. This colorway is a complex rainbow, with colors ranging from almost black to bright orange, magenta, and blue and overlapping into many subtle shades.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.344678622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.344678622.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Undersea: </span><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Undersea colorway is inspired by the high contrast and bright colors found when snorkeling in shallow waters on a bright sunny day. The brightness of the yellow, blue, and green makes this a very cheerful yarn.</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://ny-image3.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.344559235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://ny-image3.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.344559235.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Earth Day: </span><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Earth Day colorway is inspired by the beautiful shades of green blanketing the earth. It ranges from deep navy blues to a range of bright and dark greens and hints of yellow.</span><span style="line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"> </span></span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-52263607989660806262012-05-21T17:20:00.002-04:002012-05-21T17:20:37.644-04:00Dyeing and Knitting<a href="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.337881946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://ny-image2.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.337881946.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a><a href="https://ny-image1.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.338751141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://ny-image1.etsy.com/000/0/5650324/il_570xN.338751141.jpg" width="200" /></a>I've been hitting the dye pots again now that its warm enough to leave windows open and properly ventilate my dye space! Two new colorways of Shirley have hit<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution" target="_blank"> the shop</a> in the last week, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/100047579/hand-paint-sport-wool-yarn-shirley-in" target="_blank">Andromeda</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/100319034/hand-paint-sport-wool-yarn-shirley-in" target="_blank">Keukenhof</a>.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, I've been knitting on all the deadline knitting like crazy! Its been successful though, as I now have two half finished blankets and several more Wall-Es to show for it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975177/P1020882_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975177/P1020882_medium2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The Wall-Es are up to 4.5 and have been holding conference on my living room floor today. This is one of the more complicated amigurumi I've made, and therefore takes a little longer than the others. (the veil is also coming along but there wasn't an obvious enough difference so I decided not to post a new photo)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975161/P1020884_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975161/P1020884_medium2.JPG" width="176" /></a></div>
Blanket #1, the wedding blanket, is HUGE and is half done, which is fortunate since the wedding is (eek!) less than 2 weeks away! I really hope I manage to finish it in time!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975201/P1020879_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975201/P1020879_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Blanket #2, the baby blanket, is significantly smaller, but also due in less than 2 weeks, so I'm chugging along hoping to somehow finish both. I love how the biohazard symbol is coming out, and I love the afghan stitch. This blanket makes me giggle every time I pick it up (baby... biohazard... snorgle!) so I've decided to write it up when I'm done for all the other unconventional parents out there who want to get a chuckle out of their baby preparation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975106/P1020878_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/104975106/P1020878_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Between deadline knitting, when I've had a chance for mindless relaxation knitting I've gotten a couple more hexipuffs done.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-10365403669479824402012-05-07T12:38:00.002-04:002012-05-07T12:40:31.016-04:00Shop UpdateSome of the things currently in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution" target="_blank">my etsy shop</a>: Especially Viva la Knitolution tshirts, perfect to show your knitter pride during the summer! They also make great gifts. Available in several colors and sizes, and I do take custom orders for different sizes, colors, and to print other things like bags. Lots of other stock- including spinning fiber, yarn, and handspun!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1ngjtYbRvj_Fhzv7Axj5cjfzlJgmuzxwoCgzk6VLapRu5tPZpNxA07NO_XEziMpEOpvkCxrtrep-WcoTzGQhqrC5_dJeI7zDdUtU518nrQ4WrNBczAREd25TkF-GqJgwm15kT9eqm7g/s400/5.7.12.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-39123030460671140932012-04-29T17:51:00.000-04:002012-04-29T17:51:22.062-04:00Time and Relative Dimension in Space<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KCwoq_jmHrp1Ku-PoSx8GLB1p13kfS5PpaLLf6osNno58O-FbQoWtvsZ_dHslAhudYLyZAslXNO36LVQS4UhijKb2p2Nn2e5EF8tIhkKJlFauyotjb0ZHkJRuz9LdwZg6v000pkfnqA/s1600/P1000840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KCwoq_jmHrp1Ku-PoSx8GLB1p13kfS5PpaLLf6osNno58O-FbQoWtvsZ_dHslAhudYLyZAslXNO36LVQS4UhijKb2p2Nn2e5EF8tIhkKJlFauyotjb0ZHkJRuz9LdwZg6v000pkfnqA/s320/P1000840.JPG" width="279" /></a>Yep, that's right, TARDIS. Why? Because that's my latest pattern! I've finally got the charts out from my TARDIS kleenex box cover, as a free pattern- <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/dls/knitolution-designs/101465?filename=TARDIS_charts.pdf">download now</a> via Ravelry!<br />
<br />
The charts can be used for color knitting and crochet, for needlepoint, cross stitch- even for weaving. If you want my kleenex box cover, use standard plastic canvas (available at any craft store) and worsted weight yarn. Cut the pieces to allow the number of stitches shown in the chart for each side and the top, work through each of the charts, and then use a whip stitch and blue yarn to attach the pieces together and to go over the bottom edge so there is no exposed plastic showing.<br />
<br />
Allons-y!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-57819043455831800652012-04-26T14:39:00.003-04:002012-04-26T14:39:56.631-04:00KnitworthyThis started out as a post about the moment when I knew my fiance was knitworthy, but the more I thought about it, the more it grew. It isn't just that he's knitworthy, its that his being knitworthy highlights so many of the reasons I love him. <div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/13380994/P3120239_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/13380994/P3120239_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
The first thing I ever knit for my fiance was a hat. It was a terrible hat. We were on a trip, it was colder than expected, and he didn't have a hat. The only spare yarn I had was crummy, and the only needles I had with me were the wrong size for the yarn. (Why did I have crummy yarn without needles the right size to use it if I wanted to? There are some questions better left unasked.) But I whipped out a crummy hat in an hour or so, and it kept him warm(er) for that trip. Given the total lack of time, energy and love committed to that hat, I wouldn't have been upset at all if he got rid of it upon return to his hats of superior usefulness at home. But he didn't. A few years later, when we were cleaning out our stuff in preparation to move, he still had the hat! He had kept it just because I made it for him. I convinced him to pass it along in the donation box- but I knew in that moment that he was a keeper, and knitworthy to boot. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/18669446/P1030746_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/18669446/P1030746_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
The next thing I made him was a pair of "gloves", his "Teradactyl" gloves. He helped pick out the pattern, and it was the first thing I ever made with my own handspun yarn. Not only does he still wear them all the time, but he proudly shows them off to everyone.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A few months ago, a spinning wheel practically fell into my lap. When I told my fiance I was bringing it home, I expected a response about where the hell would it go? and why do I need more stuff for knitting/spinning? and why was I spending money on this? but all I got was "Awesome!" Which is way more supportive than I would probably have been- so, lesson learned better half! During the following weeks of repairs and finishing to get the wheel back into prime condition, he was very curious- to the point that I think I might get him spinning someday. Now, I'm sure part of that is because he's an engineer, and wanting to know how things work is in his blood... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749979/P1020380_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749979/P1020380_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
And then, the socks. The socks that got me thinking about how lucky I am to have such a knitworthy partner. I already posted about how he allowed himself to be dragged into being my excuse to buy yarn in France, so I could make him socks (I've been trying to convince him that I should make him socks for awhile now) and every time I tried them on his feet he got a more eager look on his face. I'm a little worried that I'm ruining him for storebought socks and will have my hands full knitting him socks for the rest of my life, but mostly I can't wait to see the look on his face when they're finished and he can wear them for real. And that started me thinking about how he doesn't just pretend to be interested in what I'm working on, or in going to mills and petting sheep and spotting knitterly things while travelling- he really is interested, because he's interested in me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then I thought about how thrilled he was when I got my first pattern accepted by Knit Picks, and when they featured it in the Knit Picks catalogue, and what a tolerant glove and hat model he's been, and how supportive he's been of my endeavors with Knitolution and I realized- I am truly blessed to have such wonderful, curious, intelligent, interested, supportive partner. That's how I knew he was knitworthy. </div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-5715099547072561662012-04-23T18:11:00.002-04:002012-04-23T18:19:30.489-04:00Vacation Knitting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101752474/P1020377_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101752474/P1020377_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Vacation knitting is so relaxing! Especially when you've been mostly doing deadline knitting under pressure. I'm home now, and back at the deadline knitting- which, incidentally, is less onerous when you've been away from it for 2 weeks. Today I finished Wall-E (Wall-E 1 of 10 that is) and isn't he cute? I had to make some pattern modifications, as I said in the last post. It didn't turn out to be that complicated to make him fewer pieces with less sewing- mostly a matter of magic circles and crochet through the back loop only.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101750005/P1020379_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101750005/P1020379_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
But back to the vacation knitting! I took an old project with me- the Sailor's Scarf, that I never seem to get anywhere with. I didn't work on it a whole lot, but I did get a couple pattern repeats done. Its gorgeous, just slow. and grey. and tiny and slippery, which don't go well with knitting in moving vehicles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749953/P1020381_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749953/P1020381_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
I brought along two projects to start on vacation- in theory one was backup in case I completely finished the other... but are you surprised to learn that I cast both on before we even left the US? That's right, on our 1 hour flight to Philly, I had already started both projects.<br />
<br />
The first is a lace shawl, the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/shetland-triangle-lace-shawl" target="_blank">Shetland Triangle pattern</a>. I can't tell you who for just yet. I'm loving the yarn, and loving working this pattern again. I already made it once, in what turned out to be <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/vivalaknitolution/shetland-triangle-lace-shawl" target="_blank">my giant silver shawl</a>. This pretty much flew along for much of the first half of the trip.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749922/P1020382_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749922/P1020382_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
The second is the entrelac socks I've been meaning to make for, oh, three years or so! As it turns out, the pattern needs some serious tech editing. Its a brilliant construction method, but I had to pretty much reconstruct a lot of the hows and wherefores for myself. I'm now really glad this project has lain in wait for so long, because when I got it I had neither the knitting knowledge nor the entrelac experience to figure out all these issues, and while I know the designer and she would have been happy to explain, figuring out that I couldn't figure it out while on vacation and without internet would have been enormously frustrating. As it is now, it was just an interesting challenge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749856/P1020331_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749856/P1020331_medium2.JPG" width="188" /></a></div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749882/P1020332_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749882/P1020332_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>I bought yarn in Europe (really, no shocker there!) Ryan agreed to be my excuse in France (more on that shortly) and in Holland, I couldn't find any Dutch yarn, so I came home with German sock yarn and Swedish lace yarn- both things I at least have never seen in the US (that doesn't mean they can't be found here, just that they aren't available at any of the shops I frequent) The sock yarn will (eventually) be (shockingly) socks, while I have plans for green beads and brown lace yarn and a leafy pattern and forest-y goodness. (again... eventually)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749979/P1020380_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/101749979/P1020380_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
The French yarn however! Nothing was really reaching out and grabbing me at Bergere de France, at least nothing that I could think what I'd do with it and therefore how much to buy, so I went with what any sensible person would do- I asked Ryan what I could make for him, and with which yarn. After some coaxing and reassurances that he really really really would love handknit socks, we settled on this lovely tweedy yarn (soft too!) and I promptly cast on for his socks. I call them his 5 country socks, because I knit them on the bust to Amsterdam, so they've been knit in France, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, the USA, and even over international waters! These absorbed most of my time in the second half of the trip and are well on their way to sockdom. They fit really well, and so far he's quite pleased. Fortunately, since the next 3 months will be full of nearly exclusively deadline knitting, its going to be awhile before boot socks will be in service again, so there isn't any rush to finish.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-82381253570064180682012-04-05T23:29:00.000-04:002012-04-05T23:29:35.091-04:00Finishing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99605733/P1010327_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99605733/P1010327_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
I've been on a finishing kick lately. I know, I know, its a problem we should all have! I'm actually quite thrilled with how many projects I've been finishing lately that have turned out just how I wanted them. I feel that the knitting powers that be are looking kindly on my endeavors.<br />
<br />
Finished in the last 2 weeks:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604945/P1010325_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604945/P1010325_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Kriselle's dress is finally done! The skirt has so many increases that it feels never ending, but its cute now that it's done. I can't wait to see it on her.<br />
<br />
R2-D2s- all 10 R2s are done! I'm up to 23 completed wedding favors!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99605043/P1010311_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99605043/P1010311_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Started and subsequently finished in the last 2 weeks:<br />
Yarnbombing! I've been wanting to participate in some yarn bombing for ages, and I finally did- this is my section, to be added with others to an undisclosed location (Dedham Square) today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604984/P1010314_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604984/P1010314_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Wire Bracelet: at the BASD meeting, we had a little workshop about knitting with wire and beads, and this cuff is the result. I really like how it turned out, though I think the wire was a thicker than ideal gauge and hard to work with. I have some other ideas to explore in the world of knit jewelry!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/98693153/7014137569_2ef92ea89b_z_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/98693153/7014137569_2ef92ea89b_z_medium.jpg" width="200" /></a>Nina's squares: these 2 squares are my contribution to a large group blanket to provide comfort in a difficult time.<br />
<br />
Started in the last 2 weeks: (I told you, I've been busy!)<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604803/P1010329_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604803/P1010329_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Wall-E: The next set of favors is underway. This pattern is going to require a lot of modification- 20 peices for a 4" amigurimi? I don't believe in sewing up.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604905/P1010328_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604905/P1010328_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Nic & Jess's wedding blanket: This entrelac beauty will (hopefully) be finished in time for their wedding. The purple represents Jess, and the orange represents Nic.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604855/P1010331_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604855/P1010331_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Cynthia's muppet blanket: My first large project in Afghan Stitch. Her first child got a blanket with a skull and crossbones, so this one gets a blanket with a biohazard symbol!<br />
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604917/P1010330_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/99604917/P1010330_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
Still coming along:<br />
The wedding veil: It goes and goes, and is down now to about 30 (very long) rows remaining.<br />
<br />
Sailing Cross-stitch- up to almost 2 letters!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-48953718243520068422012-03-23T00:42:00.002-04:002012-03-23T00:42:32.873-04:00Spinny Spin Spin<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0g_ScfvSD0QedjWEiAponq4les69WMV02SRdBOxpdwrU8wX5eAl_AY6SL14t_F8X-eQDaWv24MTTX6Zh5bed0uievUIOj5FlgPOc43viq5Amq_mZA_Zk9yBGaUceAcfXTzTPpon7d4E/s1600/P1010307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0g_ScfvSD0QedjWEiAponq4les69WMV02SRdBOxpdwrU8wX5eAl_AY6SL14t_F8X-eQDaWv24MTTX6Zh5bed0uievUIOj5FlgPOc43viq5Amq_mZA_Zk9yBGaUceAcfXTzTPpon7d4E/s320/P1010307.JPG" width="240" /></a>It works! The first skein is off the bobbin and washed! The texture is fantastic, and it was so easy- it seemed like the fiber just flew through my fingers.<br />
<br />
Since the last post, Willa and I had a several hour pow wow with the wheel and the oil, and decided that the root of all the problems was in the crunchy crispy cracked leather strap on the footman. Problem was though, we couldn't remove it properly because the screws holding it in place are so rusted they started flaking about when I touched them (yes, I realize I could drill them out and replace them, but that's a lot of work and there isn't much room on the footman to go drilling the screws out) so we just snipped the leather and tied a new strap around the remains. Worked perfectly!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhHvROfC_wtQDhyphenhyphenueQOhgk5yPoOzstZtt-1hbrAPaKqSPbTqyprUa-X5QxmCTL8wGt3FuTgZrsCgO4g2voUpDdN3xcuYZQ58B98JmsJaOOghykUXcwzxXn8JwDgSchBLtiGB5OB32lds/s1600/P1010308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhHvROfC_wtQDhyphenhyphenueQOhgk5yPoOzstZtt-1hbrAPaKqSPbTqyprUa-X5QxmCTL8wGt3FuTgZrsCgO4g2voUpDdN3xcuYZQ58B98JmsJaOOghykUXcwzxXn8JwDgSchBLtiGB5OB32lds/s320/P1010308.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
We were still left with an overly sticky treadle- so after Willa left, I broke down and did enough dis-assembly to wiggle the treadle completely off, so I could oil all the way down the metal pegs that hold it in place- after re-assembly, it moves so easily- like a hot knife through butter!<br />
<br />
So here it is, the first finished skein off my new baby. What's it going to be? Who knows! I had no project in mind- just the joy of spinning this luscious natural brown wool. Maybe it will end up in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution" target="_blank">my etsy shop</a>- keep your eyes peeled!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-6391480658715461852012-03-15T16:26:00.000-04:002012-03-15T16:26:28.243-04:00Fiber Camp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6W_7OEwt5jBjT-x0oILBprJKkqIJ9ZSW047g-8yO-YJWmK6qUrjEBQvnBI0uxAiYtvMzlSOG7kkD_NMISa7dGM8AT454iDd_8b37zObE2ljrZQzBcZmki28Y0UNifTcja2FQan4a-YxU/s1600/P1010275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6W_7OEwt5jBjT-x0oILBprJKkqIJ9ZSW047g-8yO-YJWmK6qUrjEBQvnBI0uxAiYtvMzlSOG7kkD_NMISa7dGM8AT454iDd_8b37zObE2ljrZQzBcZmki28Y0UNifTcja2FQan4a-YxU/s200/P1010275.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Wow, what a weekend at <a href="http://www.fibercamp.org/" target="_blank">Fiber Camp</a>! So much inspiration, and so many cool new things. And a little pile of yummy swatches to show for it. (that mess of color and excitement is the schedule board)<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/420268_347363331973215_185936091449274_969488_1637393124_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/420268_347363331973215_185936091449274_969488_1637393124_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
To start off with, I got a vintage (30-40 year old, untouched in an attic for most of that time!) <a href="http://www.ashford.co.nz/newsite/spinning-wheels/20/spinning/traditional/moredetail.html" target="_blank">Ashford Traditional</a> wheel 2 weeks ago (yay!) I've been searching for an affordable and functional wheel for about 3 years now. It was very very stiff, with really crunchy leather bits, dry dry wood and some rust. After lots of help from the lovely people at the <a href="http://basdspinning.org/" target="_blank">BASD</a> meeting where I acquired the wheel, family, friends, and great new friends at Fiber Camp, including the wonderful Lucy from <a href="http://www.mindseyeyarns.com/" target="_blank">Mind's Eye Yarns</a>- we cranked on screws, oiled, conditioned leather, hydrated wood, oiled some more, pumped the treadle, oiled... and it runs! Its still soaking up oil every time its used, but it spins beautifully now. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITdL_RWkzGNCCURu8CgAORmzwQT7t_XCV76Uj19-k5WFdzuOfVb1laeaRK0P5SiHeApKToQbA5tHo6hX79EXaWb7EkvfIylGJVoGtKl7pk0d7_FIXCS4JeY3_cx7424RHfgPPh1CmXqc/s1600/P1010294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITdL_RWkzGNCCURu8CgAORmzwQT7t_XCV76Uj19-k5WFdzuOfVb1laeaRK0P5SiHeApKToQbA5tHo6hX79EXaWb7EkvfIylGJVoGtKl7pk0d7_FIXCS4JeY3_cx7424RHfgPPh1CmXqc/s200/P1010294.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
Of course, I learned lots of new things at Fiber Camp- steeking, knitting and crochet with wire and beads, how to read crochet charts, tunisian crochet, brioche stitch, hand carding (without f***ing it up), knitting backwards, <a href="http://catbordhi.com/" target="_blank">Cat Bordhi's</a> Sweet Tomato Heel, and how to choose a fleece. Whew! I can't wait to put these new skills to work- I'm already working on an entrelac blanket that's been in the queue to practice the backwards knitting, and soon I'll be starting a baby blanket in afghan stitch soon. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96887213/P1010198_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96887213/P1010198_medium2.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<div>
I've been knitting along on other projects too- and finished a few things! I finally finished the train socks- they fit absolutely pefectly. I've made socks before, but never a pair that just fit exactly like they were meant for my feet and no one else's! I almost cried when I tried them on. The pattern for the cable and eyelet pattern will be available soon. Knit in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitolution?section_id=6587924" target="_blank">my own hand painted</a> Mir sock yarn! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96928134/P1010304_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96928134/P1010304_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
I also started and finished a quick earwarmer, which will also have a pattern out soon. It has stuffed pockets over the ears for lots of warmth. It is made with <a href="http://www.sublimeyarns.com/" target="_blank">Sublime yarns</a> incredible blend of merino, cashmere, and silk! Super soft and warm, without the fuzz and fluff that could be irritating over ears. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886810/P1010213_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886810/P1010213_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886754/P1010210_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886754/P1010210_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>Kriselle's dress is coming along, I'm about halfway through the skirt- which means its gotten pretty boring since its all stockinette stitch! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886833/P1010212_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96886833/P1010212_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96887146/P1010269_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/96887146/P1010269_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a>The R2D2s are marching on into the sunset... I'm up to 6 (almost 7) and a zoidberg (thank's <a href="http://www.transformationmt.com/" target="_blank">Jess</a>!) </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And lastly, my cross stitch is now up to half a letter! ;-p </div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-54771257656651030122012-02-26T13:09:00.000-05:002012-03-15T15:36:35.985-04:00Spring Classes<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the spring, I will be offering a regular drop in knitting night at Sheepskate. Every Wednesday from 7-9, you can drop in at Sheepskate for $20. <br /><br />Bring what you're working on and get help fixing mistakes, reading a pattern, finishing, or any other questions you have. Ready to start a new project and need help planning it or want to learn a new skill? Bring your ideas, scrap yarn, and needles! <br /><br />Sign up or get more information at <a href="http://sheepskate.com/">Sheepskate</a> or by calling 781-320-9276.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<b style="background-color: white;">I also offer private lessons, both at Sheep Skate in Dedham, and in Cambridge. Please email me if you want to set something up! knitolution@gmail.com</b> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">
<i>Eileen offers a number of other classes as well, please visit her website to see the rest of her options! <a href="http://www.sheepskate.com/" style="color: #6666cc; text-decoration: none;">www.sheepskate.com</a> All classes except drop ins are pre-registration and pre-pay. Refunds will be given if classes are cancelled due to low participation. Each class has a minimum of 3 and max of 8. Please register as early as possible so that we can prepare for each student. Call 781-320-9276 or email <a href="mailto:Eileen@sheepskate.com" style="color: #6666cc; text-decoration: none;">Eileen@sheepskate.com</a> to register.</i></div>
</h3>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2670247697045948678.post-77090190579544842952012-02-09T15:23:00.002-05:002012-02-09T15:23:37.962-05:00Project Roundup<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92416502/P1010119_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92416455/P1010118_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92416455/P1010118_medium2.JPG" width="113" /></a><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92416502/P1010119_medium2.JPG" width="183" />Its time for another edition of what's on the needles!<br />
<br />
Since the last time we did this, I finished my legwarmers (and started on pointe!) and I love how they turned out. Long, and warm, and colorful. Perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417366/P1010128_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417366/P1010128_medium2.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
I started the next batch of wedding favors- this one is R2D2! (He's so cute!) and obviously, he still needs another leg.<br />
<br />
I started something for my dad too, but since he reads this... that's all you get. No hints, dad.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417980/P1010132_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417980/P1010132_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
My veil has grown considerably since the last photo of it, I'm about 2/3 done with the pattern rows now, but as the number of stitches keeps increasing I think I'm actually around halfway done.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417556/P1010129_medium2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/vivalaknitolution/92417556/P1010129_medium2.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Lastly, Kriselle's dress is done the waistband and top, and I've picked up for the skirt. There were some major issues with the pattern for the chest, that slowed me down a lot as I tried to figure out what the designer acutally intended, but I sorted things out and the skirt should be easy and quick.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12800396050912724128noreply@blogger.com1